By Vindhya Burugupalli
Head in the Cloud’s first New York City festival features a strong line up of dynamic women artists. From rappers to indie and R&B singers, 88rising is bringing out a diverse spectrum of musicians to Forest Hills stadium. Indonesian singer-songwriter NIKI will be headlining the festival and chart-topping girl groups, XG and ITZY will be showcasing their vibrant energy.
In addition, here are some noteworthy acts not to miss this weekend:
Raveena
Inspired by Indian singer Asha Puthli, Bollywood soundtracks and soul music icon, Minnie Riperton, Raveena creates ethereal and divine melodies with her voice. Drawing from her south Asian roots and life experiences the Queens-native puts on a spiritual production at her shows. Listen to her latest album “Asha’s Awakening” for a taste of her ever-evolving experimental sounds. You can see her at the Double Happiness Stage from 8:40-9:10 pm May 20.
Beabadobee
Filipino-British indie singer-songwriter rose to mainstream fame when her song “death bed (coffee for your head)” went viral on TikTok during the pandemic. But Bea has been making DIY-bedroom pop music way before 2020. Unlike “Coffee” most of her other songs have a cinematic feel and an alternative touch to them. Check out “Cologne,” “Apple Cider,” and “the perfect pair” to get to know her alt-rock coming of age rhythms. You can see her at the 88 Rising Stage from 6:35-7:15 pm on May 20.
Milli
Thai rapper and singer Milli brings in the heat to all her performances rapping smoothly in three languages. The 20-year old artist often raps about self empowerment, issues of beauty standards and consent. Milli’s artistry is rebellious, moving, sassy and dynamic. Listen to “SUDPANG!,” “Sad Aerobic,” and “Phak Kon.” Catch her at the 88 Rising Stage from 5:35-6:05 pm on May 20.
Paravi
Singing about her first-generation immigrant experiences and social justice, Paravi is a voice for Asian American youth. She shares intimate stories and feelings through her song-writing– its angsty, hopeful and melancholic. Her soft yet raspy vocals compliment the varying emotions in her lyrics and production perfectly. Listen to her singles “Angry,” “Broken English,” and “Falling.” You can catch Paravi at the Double Happiness Stage from 3:10-3:40 pm on May 20.
FiFi Zhang
Ethereal, futuristic and eclectic are three words to describe FiFi’s sound. As a multidisciplinary artist – a singer-songwriter, producer and designer– she creates otherworldly dreamscapes through her music and visuals. An amalgamation of D&B, house, rap and dream pop her songs feel like you’re traveling through time and space. Listen to “Oriental Pearl’19,” “Modern Meaninglesness,” and “Traveling Through the MilkWay.” You can listen to FiFi at the 88 Rising Stage from 2:45-3:10 pm on May 20.
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